Concept:
During the later half of the nineteenth century, Paris became internationally famous for poster art and graphic design. The development of lithographic printing techniques and the rise of advertising culture transformed Paris into the world center of poster design.
Artists such as Jules Chéret helped popularize artistic posters throughout the city.
Step 1: Understanding the growth of poster design in the nineteenth century.
The nineteenth century saw rapid growth in:
• Commercial advertising
• Lithographic printing
• Public entertainment posters
• Artistic street advertisements
Paris became the leading center of this movement.
Step 2: Analyzing Option (A) London.
London was important in publishing and printing industries, but it was not known as the capital of poster design during this period.
Hence, Option (A) is incorrect.
Step 3: Analyzing Option (B) Paris.
Paris became famous for:
• Artistic posters
• Street advertising
• Lithographic innovations
• Commercial art development
The city earned recognition as the “capital” of poster design in the late 1850s and 1860s.
Therefore, this option is correct.
Step 4: Analyzing Option (C) New York.
New York became a major advertising center later, especially during the twentieth century, but not during the specified period.
Hence, Option (C) is incorrect.
Step 5: Analyzing Option (D) Rome.
Rome is historically important for art and architecture, but it was not considered the poster design capital during this era.
Hence, Option (D) is incorrect.
Final Conclusion:
The city known as the “capital” of poster design during the later half of the 1850s and 1860s was:
\[
\boxed{\text{Paris}}
\]
Therefore, the correct option is:
\[
\boxed{(2)}
\]